11th May 2024 – (Hong Kong) A recent post on Xiaohongshu, a popular social media platform, has unveiled the five worst residential areas in Hong Kong, highlighting the stark differences in living preferences between mainland Chinese and Hong Kong residents. Surprisingly, the affluent Mid-Levels district on Hong Kong Island ranked fifth, while the Lohas Park, favoured by young families, claimed the top spot, being dubbed the “Hong Kong version of the Gaza Strip.”
The Xiaohongshu post analysed the living environments in various districts of Hong Kong, identifying the top five areas with the poorest residential conditions. Topping the list was Lohas Park, described as a “Hong Kong version of the Gaza Strip.” Reasons cited include overcrowding, making it feel like a large-scale prison, and the exhaustion of commuting after work. One comment stated, “From the moment I leave for work until I return home, I feel like a social cog, with the MTR and buses acting as conveyor belts.” While the community is relatively new, some users expressed their dissatisfaction, mentioning the lack of distinctive shops and eateries and the unpleasant odour from nearby construction sites. The humid weather was also mentioned, with comments noting the difficulty of combating moisture-related issues such as mold growth.
The second-ranked district, Sham Shui Po, was characterized as a complex and diverse area, often referred to as a “poverty-stricken zone.” It is home to numerous public housing estates, ethnic minorities, and neglected elderly individuals. Commenters described it as a forbidden place after 9pm, where one would hesitate to venture out after 10pm. Despite convenient transportation, the complexity of the area overshadowed its accessibility.
The Anderson Road area in Kwun Tong claimed the third spot due to its inconvenient transportation, as it is situated on a hillside. Dust from nearby construction sites was another factor contributing to its ranking. The fourth-ranked North District was criticised for its distance from the city centre, making residents feel disconnected from the vibrancy of Hong Kong. Surprisingly, the Mid-Levels district on Hong Kong Island, ranking fifth, puzzled many. The post questioned the fascination with the area, given the daily traffic congestion and encounters with wild boars during late-night returns. Some even complained about limited late-night dining options and additional charges for taxi rides, among other reasons.
The ranking sparked lively discussions on Xiaohongshu, with some mainland Chinese users defending Lohas Park, stating that it was not as bad as described. They praised the relatively good environment and the absence of unpleasant odours, making it suitable for families with children. Hong Kong residents came to the defence of the Mid-Levels district, emphasizing its international atmosphere, proximity to Central, historical significance, and intriguing terrain. Some users questioned the accuracy of the ranking, suggesting other areas that deserved inclusion, such as Ma On Shan, known as a “culinary desert,” the Hong Kong University with all its shortcomings, and the remote location of Tung Chung.